Toronto, Canada – The Toronto Maple Leafs have made a significant move in acquiring defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin and the rights to draft choice Kirill Slepets in a multi-team trade involving the Anaheim Ducks and Carolina Hurricanes. This trade is set to shake up the Maple Leafs’ defensive lineup and provide them with added depth and talent on the blue line as they push for success in the league.
As part of the trade, Anaheim will be receiving Toronto’s third-round pick in 2025 while also retaining 50% of Lyubushkin’s salary. On the other hand, Carolina will acquire a sixth-round pick in 2024 and retain half of Lyubushkin’s remaining salary. The financial aspects have been carefully negotiated to ensure all parties benefit from the trade agreement.
Lyubushkin, a seasoned 29-year-old defenseman from Moscow, Russia, brings a wealth of experience to the Toronto Maple Leafs, having played in 55 games for Anaheim this season and totaling four assists. With 334 NHL games under his belt and 43 points to his name, Lyubushkin is known for his physical presence on the ice and defensive capabilities, making him a valuable addition to the team.
Having initially joined the Arizona Coyotes as a free agent in 2018, Lyubushkin’s journey through the NHL has been marked by steady growth and a strong work ethic. His performance both in regular season games and during playoffs demonstrates his ability to step up in high-pressure situations, something that the Maple Leafs will look to leverage as they strive for success in the upcoming seasons.
The addition of Lyubushkin to the Maple Leafs roster is a strategic move aimed at bolstering their defensive core and adding stability to their gameplay. His presence is expected to have a ripple effect on the team, providing leadership, experience, and a competitive edge that will undoubtedly impact their performance on the ice.
With the average annual value of Lyubushkin’s contract with the Maple Leafs set at $687,500, the team has made a calculated investment in his abilities and potential contributions to their defense. As the trade settles and Lyubushkin integrates into his new team, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this move shapes the Maple Leafs’ defensive strategy moving forward.